GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH RESOURCE GUIDE August 2017
GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH RESOURCE GUIDE August 2017 PROJECT MANAGEMENT LETTER FROM THE MAYOR DEPARTMENT OF CITY PLANNING The health and wellness of Pittsburgh’s hillsides are visual Josh Lippert, ASLA, APA indicators of the City’s health and wellness. When cared for, these Andrew Dash, AICP, Assistant Director spaces are lush forest ecosystems that support vitality in the surrounding neighborhoods. When they lack care or monitoring, these spaces can quickly become degraded through active ADVISORY COMMITTEE destruction, illegal dumping, and the ecological decay of invasive CITIPARKS DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE - REAL ESTATE DIVISION species proliferation. The original 1980 Greenways for Pittsburgh DEPARTMENT OF INNOVATION AND PERFORMANCE program was ahead of its time in promoting management of the DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS City’s neglected open spaces. LAW DEPARTMENT OFFICE OF THE MAYOR In Greenways for Pittsburgh 2.0, we build on over 30 years PENNSYLVANIA DCNR of conservation-minded and community-lead stewardship of PITTSBURGH WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY undevelopable open space. The Greenways Program is also an URBAN REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY important component of the City’s OpenSpacePGH plan and addresses OpenSpace Objective 2.3-A and Strategy U. The new Greenways program targets five key goals for greenways; CONSULTANT TEAM Equity, Ecology, Economy, Placemaking, and Connectivity; and evolve environment::architecture emphasizes grassroots capacity building. By providing strategic Codametrics Studio Bryan Hanes resources such as this Greenways Resource Guide and the Fourth Economy Consulting Community Engagement Toolkit, Pittsburgh enables locally based Landforce stewards to build robust Greenway Stewardship Groups that can Western Pennsylvania Conservancy improve our neighborhoods and build stronger relationships within our communities. In Memoriam of William “Bill” Waddell, for his 47 years of service at the City of Pittsburgh and all his contributions to the Greenways for Pittsburgh Program. Sincerely,
This Resource Guide was created for existing and potential stewards and the general public, and can be used to learn about the Greenways for Pittsburgh Program. In addition to this Resource Guide, the Consultant Team also produced Mayor William Peduto an accompanying Policy Guide (created for City of Pittsburgh employees), Community Engagement Toolkit, and Online Resources. This project was funded by the City of Pittsburgh with matching funds from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). The Resource and Policy Guides were produced with the input and ideas of many individuals and organizations. The project team would like to thank all of our agency and community partners who provided feedback and inspiration. For more information about the Greenways for Pittsburgh program, please visit: www.pittsburghpa.gov/DCP/Greenways www.
Cover Photo: Seldom Seen Greenway CONTENTS
WHAT IS THE GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH PROGRAM?
Greenways for Pittsburgh is a program of the City of Pittsburgh, managed by the Department of City Planning, that helps communities designate and steward the City’s greenways to become assets for their 1 neighborhood and the City. Pittsburgh’s Greenway Program pg. 06
2 Getting Involved with Your Greenway pg. 20 WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THIS GUIDE?
This Resource Guide is a how-to manual for residents who are interested in becoming stewards of one of the City’s greenways. The Guide explains the Greenway Program and provides useful information for stewards of 3 existing greenways or those interested in Making a Great Greenway pg. 28 designating a new greenway. The guide is an abridged version of additional material that is available online. www.
4 Greenways in Action pg. 38
WHO CAN BE A STEWARD?
Anybody can steward Pittsburgh’s greenways! Official community-based Greenway Stewardship Groups can coordinate volunteers and establish a greenway’s vision with the community. PITTSBURGH’S GREENWAY PROGRAM Pittsburgh’s landscape is woven with green hillsides and deep valleys that define our neighborhoods’ unique identities. These green ribbons connect our communities, are throughways for people and wildlife, and provide natural services. Greenways can serve another important purpose by bringing communities together.
1 What is a greenway? What are the greenway types? Who is involved? How do we implement our vision? How do we build capacity? How do we grow our group? What are our core activities?
Related Online Resources: Community engagement toolkit Community capacity resources www. What is a Greenway?
A greenway is defined as a permanently conserved, primarily passive open space that is stewarded primarily by the community and serves to benefit adjacent neighborhoods and the general public.
Goals for Pittsburgh’s greenways
Greenways promote social equity in Pittsburgh by improving access to green space and passive recreation as well as by helping communities EQUITY grow through activities, tasks, and common goals.
Greenways bolster Pittsburgh’s ecology by protecting habitats, improving air quality, managing stormwater, sequestering carbon, reducing heat ECOLOGY islands, and improving human health.
Greenways offer economic benefits to the community by improving ECONOMY property values and providing opportunities for workforce development.
Greenways protect the beauty and integrity of Pittsburgh’s hillsides and provide quality green space. Greenways can also preserve PLACEMAKING cultural and historic assets of Pittsburgh’s past.
Greenways can connect neighborhoods with passages for pedestrians and cyclists. Greenways can also stitch together parks and open spaces to CONNECTION create contiguous ecological corridors.
8 | GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH 2.0 RESOURCE GUIDE The Hollows 2010
Spring Hill / Spring Garden 1981
Perry South 2010
Allegheny River 2011
Bigelow 2012
Oakcliffe 2011 Duquesne Heights 1984 (now part of Emerald View Park)
Seldom Seen 1985
Knoxville Incline 2016 Nine Mile Run 2012 Moore 2006 Hazelwood 1983
Greenway Fairhaven 2006 Public Open Space Woodland
The Greenways for Pittsburgh program The importance of greenways has also was established in 1980 to designate been expressed by Mayor Peduto. The steeply sloped, unbuildable land for Mayor’s executive order committing the the purpose of protecting hillsides City to climate change initiatives (June and preserving passive open space. 2017) recognizes protection of the This program has resulted in twelve natural environment as a key initiative to designated greenways totaling 605 acres, meeting the City’s climate objectives. accounting for 14% of Pittsburgh’s public This Resource Guide was created as open space. Almost 35 years later, the part of a Greenways 2.0 “refresh” of the desire for greenways was expressed during Greenways program and describes the the creation of Pittsburgh’s Open Space processes, policies, and stewardship Plan (2013). Public input from across the guidelines for greenways. The new City indicated that communities wanted program will encourage stewardship, more greenways to improve access to improve the quality, connectivity, and trails and natural areas, and to connect accessibility of greenways, and help the parks and other open spaces. City reach its ambitious sustainability goals.
Chapter 1: Pittsburgh’s Greenways Program | 9 What are the Greenway Types?
Conservation Greenway Temporary
Passive Greenway
Active Site
Easement or Mobility Corridor
There are three types of greenways:
CONSERVATION PASSIVE ACTIVE SITE
All greenways promote conservation, Most Pittsburgh greenways allow Some greenways include active sites with but some serve only that purpose. for passive uses. higher levels of recreational activity. Conservation greenways contain Passive greenways contain: Any activities which require permanent ecologically sensitive lands such as: • Trails infrastructure, special equipment, or specialized maintenance are limited to designated active • Steep slopes • Overlooks and scenic views sites. These activities must have a low impact • Landslide prone slopes • Natural or cultural heritage assets on the environment, and would either be • Undermined hilltops Passive greenways also allow uses that do permitted by the City or administered by a • Stormwater management and not require permanent infrastructure, special vendor with a lease from the City. floodplains equipment, or maintenance such as: Conservation greenways provide: • Hiking These activities may include: • Ecological preservation • Biking • Cross country skiing • Stormwater management • Horseback riding • Mountain biking
10 | GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH 2.0 RESOURCE GUIDE ANATOMY OF A GREENWAY Temporary Active Commercial Active Permitted Use Site Use Site Historic Asset
Mobility Corridor
Stormwater Site
Trail UTILITY EASEMENT Overlook
Passive Conservation
Other elements such as a utility easement or mobility corridor may exist within any of the greenway typologies where appropriate:
MOBILITY CORRIDOR Mobility corridors are easements through greenways maintained by the City. Mobility corridors provide improved connectivity to pedestrians and cyclists throughout the City. They include City steps, multi-use trails, or rights-of-ways.
UTILITY EASEMENT Utility easements are locations where existing utility infrastructure passes through a greenway. These easements fall under the utility company’s responsibility for routine maintenance.
TEMPORARY GREENWAY Temporary greenway parcels are City-owned parcels that are located next to officially designated greenways. They are not officially part of the greenway but greenway activities may occur on them. Permanent and costly improvements should not be made to temporary greenway parcels because they can be sold in the future.
Chapter 1: Pittsburgh’s Greenways Program | 11 Who is involved?
Is there an area of hillside Are you excited woodlands and/or about the idea of vacant City-owned having an officially property in your designated greenway neighborhood? in your community? WE WANT TO START A GREENWAY! Do you love the idea of preserving green space and creating trails?
Start by reading this guide to learn more about what it takes to officially designate and steward a greenway. Next, visit the greenways website to fill out an application. Having trouble? Contact the Greenways Program Manager for more information.
Do you steward an existing WE TAKE CARE greenway? Do you want to improve your OF AN EXISTING greenway but don’t know how? GREENWAY!
Are you lacking The City strongly recommends that existing GSGs capacity to maintain meet some of the requirements outlined in the five and operate your phase designation process as a way to find answers greenway? for these and other questions. Please reference the “existing greenways” column shown on the following process diagrams.
12 | GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH 2.0 RESOURCE GUIDE Greenways Advisory Panel (GAP) The GAP is a group of individuals from the City of Pittsburgh who advise the Greenway Program Manager on efforts related to individual greenways.
Greenways Program Manager (GPM) The GPM is the single point of contact for the Greenways Program. They provide oversight of the greenways program and are available to answer questions and guide you through the process.
Greenway Stewardship Group (GSG) Every greenway has a community-based and community-lead GSG. The GSG is responsible for maintaining and operating the greenway, conducting community outreach, and implementing ongoing projects. Potential stewards should work with the GPM to join an existing GSG or start their greenway’s GSG.
Greenway Volunteer Greenway Volunteers are individuals or families who volunteer their time to assist in greenway stewardship. Anyone is welcome to become a Greenway Volunteer and participate in the GSG’s efforts.
Greenway Partner (GP) Greenway Partners are often non-profits or 501c3 organizations that have demonstrated experience working in greenways and are often the first choice to work with GSGs. Greenway Partners often specialize in specific topics or sites. GPs can also work at the system-wide scale, lead the greenway process and/or act as a GSG.
Chapter 1: Pittsburgh’s Greenways Program | 13 How do we implement our vision?
Greenways are a result of community-led efforts to thoughtfully preserve and connect otherwise overlooked open spaces, and create STEWARD IT INTO connections between our neighborhoods and THE FUTURE! our natural hillsides. In Pittsburgh, communities are the driving force for the designation and care of greenways. The long-term vitality of a neighborhood greenway depends on a robust and shared community vision. It is important that you and your community create a forward-looking vision and goals for your greenway. Every community has unique opportunities, including connecting a greenway to nearby trails, preserving wildlife habitats, maintaining enjoyable views, or creating active MAKE STRATEGIC use sites. IMPROVEMENTS The success of this vision depends on coalitions and partnerships as you implement projects. You will need to ensure that the initial excitement for a plan or project is shared with others so that your greenway can be sustained and that the responsibilities of stewardship are shared by many and across generations. ASSEMBLE A PLAN WITH THE COMMUNITY
BUILD ESTABLISH GOALS & CAPACITY PARTNERSHIPS
14 | GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH 2.0 RESOURCE GUIDE How do we build capacity?
Greenways exist to serve the general public, but they cannot be sustained without the help of volunteers and Greenway Stewardship Groups. The Greenways for Pittsburgh process is intended to help build community capacity by consolidating support, knowledge, resources, and skills. The Role of Community Engagement Community engagement is an essential part of the greenways process, and should serve several purposes, including to:
Inspire interest in the greenway and in stewardship activities. ENGAGE Build literacy of the greenways, including their purpose, uses, benefits, and maintenance. INFORM Encourage the community to visit the greenway and/or participate in stewardship activities. ACTIVATE Share decision making regarding the greenway, DIRECT ENGAGEMENT including prioritization of projects. COOPERATE MEETINGS VOLUNTEER EVENTS There are several ways to build community capacity, CITIZEN SCIENCE including direct engagement with individuals and creating partnerships with organizations. Both of ART INSTALLATIONS these actions make it easier to cultivate the support ACTIVITIES of agencies and officials. If your group has low SCAVENGER HUNTS capacity, visit the Greenways for Pittsburgh website TOURS to learn more about partnering organizations. www. GAMES For an extensive list and related resources such as TRAINING suggested community meeting agendas, exercises, PRESENTATIONS a greenway fundamentals presentation, and engagement methods; please refer to the Greenways STEWARDS SYMPOSIUM Community Engagement Toolkit, found on the COMMUNITY DINNER Greenways website. www. COMPETITION WORKING GROUP
Chapter 1: Pittsburgh’s Greenways Program | 15 How do we grow our group?
Cultivating Core Leadership Both existing and new greenways need consistent leadership to ensure long term viability. Although there may be individuals or a small group of people who are most strongly associated with a greenway, it is helpful to have shared leadership to allow people to contribute as they are able. Greenway leaders often cultivate skills that help them accomplish their goals such as: • Strong communication skills • Knowledge of the greenways process • A commitment to transparency and seeking multiple perspectives • Courage to make mid-course corrections • Organized and a good manager of relationships • Writing or graphic skills, legal or financial skills, Who is involved? environmental knowledge, and/or facilitation experience The City and partner organizations may host events such as the Core Stewardship Group Stewards Symposium that help GSGs learn from experts and their Leads stewardship activities and community engagement. peers. Supporters & Participants Ever Widening Circles of Support Participates in stewardship. The vision of a few community leaders can go a long way in Greenway Users building the enthusiasm of a larger group. Early excitement Visits greenway and attends engagement events. needs to be channeled into an inclusive coalition. To keep people engaged, community members should see their ideas reflected in the developing plan or projects. Community leaders should allow neighbors to participate in different ways and recognize that their neighbors’ contributions can take many forms. Some neighbors may find the projects more satisfying while others may be interested in planning or financing. Strong leaders recognize that diverse skills are needed and they seek out people who can fill these roles. GREENWAYS ARE Formalizing a Committee or Group INCLUSIVE! Ultimately the core group needs to channel broad support and enthusiasm into action. Each Greenway Stewardship Group shares Anyone is welcome to join a GSG and knowledge, has effective ways of making decisions, gathers volunteer in a greenway! Greenways financial resources, and has legal standing (once they have are inclusive spaces, where all people signed a Memorandum of Understanding - MOU) to act on behalf and ideas are welcome. The more of their individual greenway. Though not explicitly required, volunteers a GSG has, the better expectations for GSG participants should be clearly stated. By the greenway will be! Greenways are defining key roles and skills, the organization can better endure wonderful spaces for everyone to changes that occur when individuals transition on and off of the connect with their community! committee.
16 | GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH 2.0 RESOURCE GUIDE How do we grow our group? What are our core activities?
In addition to the establishment and planning of a greenway, a Greenway Stewardship Group has ongoing support activities The way you brand a new that ensure the success of its Greenway and the implementation or existing greenway can of its plan. The GSG’s key tasks include Outreach & Engagement, Fundraising, and Planning & Projects. make it memorable and Outreach and Engagement invite support. Consider the Greenways are unique among Pittsburgh’s open spaces because following when developing they are directly administered by community stewards, and to be successful they need outreach to invite visitors as well as your greenway brand: gather supporters and participants. A deliberate outreach and engagement campaign is an essential task of the GSG, especially in passive greenways and active sites. Is there a unique Although different messages should be crafted for each historic, cultural, or audience, the core information about the specific greenway landscape feature that vision and its assets should be consistent. Consider with the distinguishes community what makes your greenway unique and how you might develop a brand that relates to your greenway’s identity. the greenway? The frequency and scale of outreach will be different for each greenway. Your group may want to publicize milestone events such as a trail opening, greenway expansion, or recurring events like clean-ups. Many news outlets search for community interest Does your brand relate stories, and greenways can capture their attention through to the trail names that informal social media releases and/or formal press releases. comply with the City’s In addition, your GSG may want to consider other outlets to Trail Naming Guidelines? reach neighbors who may not use social media. Distributing printed maps, newsletters, and brochures door-to-door or in www. local businesses helps connect people to the greenway in their neighborhood. Speaking at churches, schools, or other institutions brings the greenway to existing networks. Finally, non-traditional outreach, such as hosting exhibitions of Is the brand part photography taken in a greenway, can reinforce a greenway’s identity and bring the magic of the greenway to those who may of a longer term or never be inclined or able to visit. larger scale greenway vision?
Is the brand meaningful to all adjacent communities and not exclusive to one?
Chapter 1: Pittsburgh’s Greenways Program | 17 Fundraising Greenway Stewardship Groups build excitement around the vision and hands-on projects. It is probably safe to say that no greenway was founded because community leaders were excited about fundraising! However, since greenways have limited direct funding, raising money is essential to greenway success. Stewards should target specific goals for greenway funding, including money for:
Acquisition and related legal services for private land PROJECTS Planning-related design and engineering services Activities and events PROGRAMS Community engagement and outreach Operational funds for the sponsoring organization OPERATIONS Project and maintenance materials, supplies, and labor In addition to community fundraisers, funding may be available through different types of sources. In the past, public funding has included sources at the city, regional, state, and federal levels, that target parks and open space improvements, environmental remediations, stormwater management, land acquisition, trail building, and mobility improvements. Please note that all GSGs must partner with a fiscal agent, such as an RCO or non-profit, in order to lawfully accept grant money. Sources could include: • Pittsburgh Shade Tree Commission • Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority and Alcosan The Greenways for Pittsburgh process • PA Department of Conservation & Natural Resources prompts community organizations • PA Department of Environmental Protection for the appropriate level of detail with • PA Department of Community and Economic Development regards to fundraising and encourages • US National Park Service more sophisticated budgeting as the • Community Economic Development Fund greenway progresses through the five • Community Infrastructure and Tourism Fund step process. National and regional philanthropies and foundations can be sources of greenway funding because they align with open space, Additional guidance can be found environmental, or community development priorities. Foundation through the Greenways Program funding is often channeled through intermediate non-profit groups Manager, Greenway Partners, and whose mission is compatible with the program. online resources. www. Community-based funding can raise money through creative events and donations. It is also possible to raise money through “Adopt-a-Greenway” or “Friends of the Greenway” programs that have been used successfully with other open spaces. The steward or sponsor organization must be a registered non-profit to accept tax deductible donations and to maintain a donor program/database. Crowdfunding through websites like IOBY or Kickstarter can help raise funds for specific projects or campaigns. Additionally, the organization IOBY currently has a regional focus centered around Pittsburgh.
18 | GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH 2.0 RESOURCE GUIDE Planning and Projects The community’s greenway vision is fulfilled through planning and projects. Planning of some kind takes place at every step of the process. From community meetings to volunteer days, planning ensures that the Greenway Stewardship Group’s efforts support the broader goals of the community. Successful planning requires a deliberate and open community outreach process. Your neighbors have valuable insights into how the greenway should function within the neighborhood. Planning is also a good way to help your neighbors get involved and invested in the greenway. Those involved in planning the greenway are more likely to volunteer later on. For many greenways, the implementation plan will be the most important document to coordinate improvements and maintenance in the greenway (completed in phase 3). Other plans along the way could include an acquisition plan (phase 2) to acquire parcels for greenway designation, a designation plan (phase 2) to create a new greenway or expand an existing one, a fundraising plan (phase 4) for key projects, programs, or operations, or an annual report (phase 5) reporting on successes of the past year and upcoming Let’s get to work! plans. The Greenways Program Manager and Greenways Advisory Panel are available to guide your group along the way. Projects are the most exciting part of being a greenway steward! Working with volunteers or Greenway Partners, projects can transform a greenway from neglected open space into a well-loved community asset. The implementation of projects can improve a greenway so that it becomes more respected in the community. Projects are identified and prioritized with insight from the community during the development of an implementation plan. Many projects could require fundraising to purchase materials or hire service providers and/or Greenway Partners. Stewardship projects range from regular clean-ups with volunteers to construction of trails and ecological restoration with Greenway Partners. Key projects like signage and fencing help to establish the greenway’s identity while maintenance projects like clean-ups and trail monitoring ensure the greenway is clean, healthy, and safe into the future.
Chapter 1: Pittsburgh’s Greenways Program | 19 GETTING INVOLVED WITH YOUR GREENWAY Greenways for Pittsburgh offers a chance for existing greenways to re-establish GSG commitments and for other neighborhoods to consider sponsoring a new greenway.
The following chapter explains a multi- step process to guide both existing and new greenways.
2 The lifecycle of a greenway Initiation Designation Implementation Plan Projects & Stewardship
Related Online Resources: Greenway process resources Form templates www. The Lifecycle of a Greenway
PHASES NEW GREENWAYS EXISTING GREENWAYS
INITIATION This phase contains the preliminary work completed by a community Complete an abbreviated version, or the City to test if a group of parcels would be viable as a greenway. including documentation and 1 community engagement. OUTCOME: PRELIMINARY DESIGNATION PLAN ENDORSED BY THE GAP
DESIGNATION This phase focuses on acquiring property, planning, and preparation of Complete an abbreviated version, documentation, to successfully complete the legal designation process. including documentation and community engagement. 2 OUTCOME: GREENWAY OFFICIALLY DESIGNATED BY CITY COUNCIL
IMPLEMENTATION PLAN This phase focuses on creating a master implementation plan Same as for new greenways. for the greenway. 3 OUTCOME: IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ENDORSED BY THE GAP
PROJECTS This phase focuses on completing projects outlined in the master Same as for new greenways. implementation plan. 4 OUTCOME: GREENWAY LAUNCHES
STEWARDSHIP This phase focuses on operating and maintaining the greenway, Same as for new greenways. completing new projects, and annual reporting. 5 OUTCOME: CONTINUED OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE
22 | GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH 2.0 RESOURCE GUIDE This five step process describes the stages by which a new greenway is designated. It is highly recommended that existing greenways complete an abbreviated version of this process. Each step along the way adds more detail to the documentation of the greenway, helping future stewards to understand what has been done so they can continue implementation.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION NEW & EXISTING GREENWAYS
Vision and goals Proposed location Existing physical assets Historic information Greenway Application
Updated information from the Greenway Application Community meeting 1 summary + Acquisition strategy Stewardship model Partners Funding sources Desired typology Designation Plan
Updated information from the Designation Plan Environmental assessment + Greenway uses Overall Greenway visioning map Project phasing Implementation Plan Updated information from the Implementation Plan Project description, location, and design + Related uses Cost and funding Partners and project management Timeline Insurance Project Approval Approvals Forms
Updated information from the Project Approval Forms Maintenance tasks completed + Projects occurring in upcoming year Changes in greenway statistics New MOU (if there are changes to the GSG) Annual Reports
Chapter 2: Getting Involved with Your Greenway | 23 Preliminary work completed by a community to test if a 1 INITIATION group of parcels would be viable as a greenway.
NEW EXISTING GREENWAYS GREENWAYS NOTES
The application can be GREENWAY filled out online. www. APPLICATION
REVISION Meet with the GPM or your MEETING W/ THE GPM Neighborhood Planner to (DEPARTMENT OF CITY PLANNING) revise application as needed.
Following the revisions, the GPM will decide whether the proposed greenway should REVIEW officially enter the initiation GREENWAY PROGRAM MANAGER process based on the POTENTIAL GREENWAY OFFICIALLY ENTERS THE greenway’s scorecard results. INITIATION PROCESS
The meeting should introduce COMMUNITY MEETING 1 the concept of a greenway GATHER INFORMATION and gather opinions and information from attendees.
This should include the DESIGNATION PLAN greenway vision and goals, (PRELIMINARY) proposed location, typology, characteristics, and more. REVISION The GAP will review the designation plan and provide recommended revisions if REVIEW needed. After GAP review, the GREENWAYS ADVISORY PANEL greenway moves to the next DESIGNATION PLAN IS REVIEWED FOR ALIGNMENT WITH phase. PROGRAM & VIABILITY
OUTCOME | 4-6 months Candidate (or existing) greenway is advanced to the designation phase.
NOTE: Time ranges are estimates and the actual length of time per phase will depend on capacity, funding, and other factors.
24 | GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH 2.0 RESOURCE GUIDE Acquire property, plan and prepare documentation, to 2 DESIGNATION successfully complete the legal designation process.
NEW EXISTING GREENWAYS GREENWAYS NOTES
These tasks can occur finalize MOUs concurrently. For more finalize FUNDING information about funding, begin PARCEL ASSEMBLY please refer to the “What are community PETITION our core activities?” section earlier in this guide.
DESIGNATION PLAN (FINAL) Consult the GPM while working on the final draft of As needed, consult the plan. GREENWAY PROGRAM MANAGER
The meeting should build COMMUNITY MEETING 2 support for the greenway GATHER SUPPORT and attendees should provide feedback regarding what they would like to see in the greenway. This series of reviews may include requests for revisions REVIEW before endorsement to move GREENWAYS ADVISORY PANEL on to the next phase. DESIGNATION PLAN IS PLACED ON APPROVALS CALENDAR
REVIEW PLANNING COMMISSION PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDS APPROVAL TO CITY COUNCIL REVIEW NAMING COMMISSION PATHS & RIGHT-OF-WAYS ARE NAMED
The Greenway is not officially designated until the APPROVAL Designation Plan has been CITY COUNCIL approved by City Council. CITY COUNCIL REVIEWS GREENWAY FOR ALIGNMENT WITH PROGRAM AND VIABILITY
OUTCOME | 4-6 months Greenway is officially designated and celebrated in a community launch!
NOTE: Time ranges are estimates and the actual length of time per phase will depend on capacity, funding, and other factors.
Chapter 2: Getting Involved with Your Greenway | 25
CITY COUNCIL This phase focuses on creating a master 3 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN implementation plan for the greenway.
NEW EXISTING GREENWAYS GREENWAYS NOTES
This plan outlines how IMPLEMENTATION PLAN your greenway will As needed, consult achieve its vision through GREENWAY PROGRAM MANAGER projects. It will guide stewardship tasks for the next 3 - 5 years.
This meeting should COMMUNITY MEETING 3 allow attendees to PRIORITIZE & ACTIVATE provide feedback on (additional meetings are encouraged, proposed projects and the but not required) implementation plan.
Once the implementation plan is reviewed by the GAP, REVIEW the GSG is allowed to begin GREENWAYS ADVISORY PANEL implementing it. IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ENDORSED TO ALLOW FOR STREAMLINED APPROVALS
OUTCOME | 4-6 months The greenway has a plan that organizes action for 3 - 5 years!
NOTE: Time ranges are estimates and the actual length of time per phase will depend on capacity, funding, and other factors.
26 | GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH 2.0 RESOURCE GUIDE PROJECTS & Complete projects outlined in the master implementation 4+5 STEWARDSHIP plan, and operate and maintain the greenway.
NEW EXISTING GREENWAYS GREENWAYS NOTES
Revise or create a new REVISE IMPLEMENTATION PLAN implementation plan every EVERY 3 - 5 YEARS three to five years.
Implement projects IMPLEMENT PROJECTS from the plan. Work EVERY YEAR with the GPM to acquire appropriate approvals. Work with partners as needed.
Tasks vary by greenway PERFORM ONGOING typology. STEWARDSHIP TASKS EVERY YEAR REPEAT
The annual report includes ANNUAL REPORT which tasks and projects EVERY YEAR were performed in the past year, and which are planned for the upcoming year. This is accompanied by a walk- through with the GPM.
This event is organized by the ATTEND STEWARDS SYMPOSIUM City and will provide stewards & CELEBRATION! with resources to improve EVERY YEAR their greenways.
OUTCOME | every year Ongoing maintenance, outreach, and projects.
NOTE: If a GSG fails to submit their annual report two years in a row, they do not perform the duties outlined in the Greenways Resource Guide, or are showing signs of blatant disregard for their responsibilities, the GPM and the GAP have the right to put the greenway on probation. The GAP and the GPM will then begin soliciting for a new GSG through RCOs as well as GPs.
Chapter 2: Getting Involved with Your Greenway | 27
CITY COUNCIL MAKING A GREAT GREENWAY Successful greenways are inviting places to walk through and to linger. They may have spectacular views, contain historic artifacts, or may just be pleasant and convenient passages from one place to another. This chapter helps communities understand how to plan and design an inviting greenway.
3 What makes a great greenway? Greenway elements Greenway responsibilities
Related Online Resources: Community capacity resources Greenway elements resources Form templates www. What makes a great greenway?
Greenways are often inspired by someone imagining a trail, overlook, or other amenity in the wooded area in their neighborhood. However, greenways are more I WANT OUR than just a collection of inspired projects. Greenways artfully organize different GREENWAY TO BE elements to make enjoyable spaces that are available to all. To make a truly fantastic greenway, consider the following principles AWESOME! when developing your implementation plan:
Connect to other green spaces and surrounding neighborhoods CONNECTIONS Integrate community ideas, needs, priorities, participation, and actions COMMUNITY Use clear signage and information to encourage visitors and raise awareness VISIBILITY Choose appropriate plants and materials to increase lifespan and reduce maintenance RESILIENCE Protect from illegal activities such as dumping, motorized vehicles, hunting, and encroachment PROTECTION Create enjoyable projects to keep the community active and engaged. FUN!
How to Make Planning Decisions There are many options to consider when developing an implementation plan for your greenway, and it can sometimes be difficult to cooperate when establishing priorities. Consider the following when making decisions regarding your greenway’s implementation plan priorities:
What did the community members say? Use voting or other techniques to quantify community wishes for the greenway. Does this support our vision and goals? If suggested projects are not in support of the greenway vision and goals, they should not be a first priority. How much funding do we have available? Choosing low or no cost projects first can help build momentum with a small budget. Can we use workforce development or another benefit? Choosing projects that create jobs or training opportunities for community members provides the greenway with a dual benefit. Can everyone use it? Who can utilize the project once it is complete should be considered when making decisions (can only able bodied individuals use it?).
30 | GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH 2.0 RESOURCE GUIDE Choosing Greenway Elements The greenway elements can work together in support of the greater greenway vision and goals. For example, benches can be placed at overlooks to give visitors the opportunity to sit and take in the view, or signage can be mounted near to entry points on access control fencing to save materials. As your group decides which elements to choose and where to place them, make sure you are thinking about the greenway as a system. The elements are meant to work together and the stewardship group should consider the best way to phase projects when selecting them.
After collaborating and establishing the greenway’s vision and goals, it is time to select and prioritize projects and greenway elements. The elements included on the next page are pre-approved by the City, and details such as the cost, construction documents, and more can be found on the Greenways website. If your group chooses to pursue a project or element that is not included in this Resource Guide, please discuss this with the Greenways Program Manager. www.
Chapter 3: Making a Great Greenway | 31 Greenway Elements
The following greenway elements can be built and/or acquired for a greenway, depending on whether it is a passive or conservation greenway.
ENTRY SIGNAGE Greenway signage is standardized and should follow the City’s Open Space Signage Standard. Signs should be located at every major entry and can either be freestanding or attached to access control fencing. The signs should: • Identify the greenway (name) • Provide regulatory information • Provide directional information (maps) Who is responsible for this? DCP is responsible for designing the signs. Stewards are responsible for purchasing, mounting, and installing the signs.
TRAIL AND MILE MARKERS Greenway trail markers are standardized and should follow the City’s Open Space Signage Standard. At the least, trail markers should be located at every trail intersection. Trail markers are only required for trails that exceed 2 miles in length. Trail blazing and/or adding attachments to trees is prohibited. The markers should: • Identify the trail name and difficulty • Identify the mileage • Provide directions Who is responsible for this? DCP is responsible for designing the trail markers. Stewards are responsible for purchasing, mounting, and installing the signs.
BENCHES Benches provide a nice resting place for visitors. They should be placed along trails, near to entry points, and at points of interest (such as overlooks). Benches should be set back from a trail by more than 3 feet but less than 10 feet to ensure that the bench does not encroach within the trail or encroach within the naturalized greenway interior. Along a trail, distance between benches should be at least 200 feet. Who is responsible for this? Stewards are responsible for purchasing, building, and installing benches. All benches must follow DCP standards.
32 | GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH 2.0 RESOURCE GUIDE ACCESS CONTROL FENCE Access control fences are taller than other greenway fences to make it more challenging for individuals to access the greenway. This type of fencing should be used to prevent individuals from illegally dumping or using ATVs. A 36” opening may be provided if there is a greenway walking trail access point. Access control fencing should be used along roads, at the ends of roads, and along parking lots to control vehicle access (including ATVs and motorized vehicles), and dumping. Who is responsible for this? Stewards are responsible for purchasing, building, and installing access control fencing. All fencing must follow DCP standards.
ENCROACHMENT FENCE Encroachment fences are designed to prevent property owners from expanding their lawn or other property into the greenways, but should not discourage visitors from entering the greenway from their homes. This type of fence should be installed between the greenway and private property and parks. Who is responsible for this? Stewards are responsible for purchasing, building, and installing encroachment fencing. All fencing must follow DCP standards.
SWING GATE Swing gates should be used at major entry points where a utility, City department, or Authority requires vehicular access through or to the greenway. Swing gates should be flanked by access control fencing and should stand adjacent to a 36” gap that allows for pedestrian access. Who is responsible for this? The City is responsible for purchasing, building, and installing swing gates.
COLLAPSIBLE BOLLARD Collapsible bollards should be used at major entry points where a utility, City department, or Authority requires vehicular access through or to the greenway. Swing gates should be flanked by access control fencing where the total entry width is 8 feet to 11 feet. Collapsible bollards are desirable when there is not enough room for both a gate and a 36” gap in the fence to allow pedestrians through. Who is responsible for this? The City is responsible for purchasing, building, and installing collapsible bollards.
Chapter 3: Making a Great Greenway | 33 PLANTINGS Stewards are encouraged to include additional plantings in the greenway to highlight entries, create boundaries, contribute to their greenway’s identity, and restore ecologically sensitive areas. Additional plantings in the greenway should be native to Western Pennsylvania. For more information about plant selection, planting strategies, and protecting your greenway from invasive species, please see the Greenways website. www. Who is responsible for this? Stewards are responsible for choosing, purchasing, and planting additional vegetation.
TRAILS Trails should connect greenway entry points to neighborhood amenities, other communities, other trails, or other points of interest. It is suggested that trails should be constructed where there is an existing walking path or along routes that do not require extensive removal of existing vegetation and wildlife habitat. The ecological integrity of proposed trail corridors should be considered when locating trails. Trail entries should be marked with signage indicating their name and level of difficulty. Trails should be created with an expert trail partner (such as GPs) and should be reviewed with the Greenways Program Manager. Before construction, trails need to be walked with a GPS to record the alignment and need to be approved by the Naming Commission. Who is responsible for this? Stewards, with a qualified trail building partner, are responsible for identifying and constructing trails. All trails should be built to the trail- building guidelines found in Pennsylvania Trail Design and Development Principles, published by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). Stewards need to coordinate with the Greenways SHARED USE TRAIL - MOST DIFFICULT Program Manager and are encouraged to work with Greenway Partners (see the Greenways website for potential partners). www.
SHARED USE TRAIL - MOST DIFFICULT
SHARED USE TRAIL - MORE DIFFICULT
SHARED USE TRAIL - EASIEST SHARED USE TRAIL - MORE DIFFICULT SHARED USE TRAIL - MOST DIFFICULT EASY TO TRAVERSE MORE DIFFICULT TO TRAVERSE MOST DIFFICULT TO TRAVERSE
34 | GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH 2.0 RESOURCE GUIDE SHARED USE TRAIL - EASIEST
SHARED USE TRAIL - MORE DIFFICULT
SHARED USE TRAIL - EASIEST GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE Greenways may contain areas that manage stormwater with natural formations such as wetlands or constructed bioswales. This green stormwater infrastructure mimics the natural water cycle to encourage stormwater infiltration and/or detention. Often this infrastructure will be part of a utility easement, especially if it is part of a municipal stormwater control system. In some cases, greenway stewards may want to create small biohabitats that assist in stormwater control. Check with the Greenways Program Manager for the appropriate size and location for green infrastructure in your greenway. Who is responsible for this? Stewards may identify projects and may be able to do some construction. Stewards are encouraged to work with the City, PWSA, and other partner organizations and non-profits on how to best implement green infrastructure (see the Greenways website for potential partners). www.
ART INSTALLATIONS Environmental art or eco-art is an artistic expression that focuses on ecological themes. This may include conservation of flora and fauna, or it may integrate elements of the natural environment (such as stones, branches, or sand), all without contributing to ecological degradation. This type of art advocates for a harmonious co-existence between human beings and nature. Who is responsible for this? Stewards may identify projects and sites and will work with the Public Art and Civic Design Division at the City to understand how to best implement the project and how to best present proposals to the Art Commission.
Chapter 3: Making a Great Greenway | 35 Greenway Responsibilities
Greenway stewards are responsible for certain monitoring, maintenance, and optional management tasks. See below for more information about what stewards are responsible for in conservation and passive greenways.
WE STEWARD A CONSERVATION GREENWAY!
GSGs have access to the Cartegraph tracking system via DID their smartphones or tablets? This program is used to YOU track greenway operations and management through the KNOW? City’s Asset Management System and helps GSGs and the GPM to communicate.
The purpose of conservation greenways is to conserve areas of ecological significance. Every greenway is a conservation greenway, and stewards must complete the following tasks:
Walk the perimeter of the Greenway. Report encroachment, dumping, and other damage to the GPM. Walk the interior of the Greenway and report signs of significant erosion, and struggling/diseased vegetation.
Repair or replace signage and fencing immediately, as needed. Perform dumpsite clean-ups immediately, as needed.
Perform invasive species removal and restoration planting. Consult GPs as needed. Perform waterway restoration. Consult GPs as needed. Protect unique intact habitats. Consult GPs as needed.
UNIQUE CONDITIONS Conservation greenways may have unique conditions, such as streams and waterways, areas of rare or preserved habitats, acid mine drainage, or legacy dump sites. These conditions will ! require additional monitoring and maintenance. Partner organizations are particularly helpful to work with when unique conditions exist in your greenway. AS CAPACITY ALLOWS (optional) ALLOWS AS CAPACITY
36 | GREENWAYS FOR PITTSBURGH 2.0 RESOURCE GUIDE Monitoring Maintenance Management (optional) Monitoring activities ensure that there are Maintenance activities keep the greenway Management is a commitment to guiding eyes on the greenways regularly and can safe and helps them fulfill their essential the long-term development of a greenway. help address potential issues early on. This functions. Maintenance activities can Management is always done with specific includes documenting the condition of the include repairing a sign or picking up goals in mind. For management guidelines, greenway and reporting issues to 311 and trash. please refer to the Guidelines for Urban Cartegraph. Forest Restoration. www.
WE STEWARD A PASSIVE GREENWAY!
Passive greenways include everything described in conservation greenways, but also include trails, benches, overlooks, and other elements in support of passive activities. Stewards of passive greenways must perform all tasks for conservation greenways, plus the following tasks:
Walk all trails and report potential hazards along trails such as erosion, dead trees, or hanging limbs to Cartegraph. PLUS Walk interior of greenway and monitor integrity of overlooks, benches, and other greenway elements.
Clear/prune trails and view corridors as needed. Repair or replace trail markers, benches, overlooks, boardwalks, and other greenway PLUS elements as needed.
Perform cultural heritage and historic asset preservation (historic structures, culturally significant greenway elements, etc.). Consult GPs as needed. PLUS
UNIQUE CONDITIONS Passive greenways may have unique conditions, and stewards may choose to manage them for user experience. This may include environmental education or maintaining PLUS sites of interest. Partner organizations are particularly helpful to work with when unique conditions exist in your greenway.
Chapter 3: Making a Great Greenway | 37 HOLLOWS (CONSERVATION GREENWAY)
SELDOM SEEN (PASSIVE GREENWAY)
GREENWAYS IN ACTION Each greenway has distinct opportunities and priorities that must be balanced by the community. This chapter compares two types of greenways, a conservation greenway and a passive greenway, and shares some of the concerns that would be typical for these greenway types.
4 Greenways in action: two examples Conservation greenway (Hollows) Passive greenway (Seldom Seen) Greenways in Action: Two Examples
CONSERVATION GREENWAY Hollows 18 acres designated in 2010